A very interesting take on the role of the beta; as you know, I've linked to it from my beta essay/question thing :) and that I found this via the Snitch .
I don't know what to expect from a beta; generally I'm just grateful for whatever they do. As a beta myself, I check SPG, characterization, that there is a plot and that there aren't gaping holes the author missed... that kind of thing.
~Soul